Replacing Your Used Car Headlights

Replacing the headlight bulb of your used car may be a daunting task for a new owner. In fact many car owners would feel no shame in admitting they can’t change their own headlights. It is an uncomplicated task and can be easily tackled if you are armed with knowledge and have the patience with yourself to fully complete the task. If you purchased your used car from the used car dealers anywhere from Florissant to Hazelwood, your vehicle had two working headlights. Unfortunately, you may have recently found yourself with only one working headlight. Besides looking unkempt, it is dangerous to drive with only one working headlight.

To change your headlight bulb:

1. Locate the housing of the bulb on your vehicle. If you drive a newer model car it may be located in the trunk. Make note of how the housing is installed. Many models will allow for headlight bulb replacement without having to remove to entire housing fixture.
2. If necessary, remove the housing fasteners to expose the light bulb. These should be easily removed. They should pop out or be removed with a screwdriver. Never force the compartment open. You’ll likely break something and create more work for yourself.
3. Determine the size and type of headlight by referencing your vehicle owner’s manual.
4. Purchase the correct headlight from a local automotive parts store. I would suggest asking an employee for the headlight you need for your vehicle. It may be faster than trying to find it yourself.
5. Remove the old headlight bulb.
6. Replace with the new headlight bulb.
7. Reattach housing compartment.

Always check your work. An easy way to do so is to pull closely to the garage door and turn on your headlights. It will be obvious if your bulb replacement venture was a success. Always be sure your headlights are in proper working order before returning to the road ways.